This weekend is the unofficial start of summer for us in the United State. Picnics, barbeques, trips to the beach or lake, hiking…however you decide to spend this holiday weekend, these lemonade recipes will add a ton of sweetness to your time with friends and family. So pucker up and add a batch of lemons to your shopping list this week. And don’t forget to give thanks to all the wonderful service-people who are defending our honor and country.

In a small saucepan, heat sugar and water over medium heat until sugar is dissolved, stirring frequently. Stir in lemon strips. Bring to a boil. Reduce heat; simmer, uncovered, for 5 minutes. Cool slightly.

Transfer to a pitcher. Stir in lemon juice; cover and refrigerate until chilled. Discard lemon strips. Stir in club soda. Serve over ice.

Make a simple syrup by combining the sugar with 2½ cups water in a saucepan and boiling until the sugar dissolves, about 1 minute. Remove from heat, add the lavender blooms and cover. Let stand for 1 hour, or up to 4 hours. Strain syrup and discard lavender.

Pour lavender syrup into a pitcher. Add lemon juice and 2½ cups water. Stir, taste, and adjust to your liking, adding more lemon juice or water if desired. Refrigerate until ready to serve.